A new resource recovery centre will open in Ōmokoroa this month, which will extend the circular economy cycle project while providing meaningful work and training for people with intellectual disabilities.

The Resource Collective began as a six-month trial at the Western Bay of Plenty District Council (WBOPDC)-owned recycling centre on Tetley Rd early in 2024.

Named the Katikati Resource Recovery Centre, a team run by Sharaine Steenberg and Shelley Robinson began taking donated and unwanted goods, which could be cleaned, repaired or upcycled and sold on to the community.

The team of helpers was made up of Katikati-based Chrome Collective’s network of 50 individuals who have varying intellectual disabilities.

The idea was the brainchild of Steenberg and Robinson, who said its members help sort donations of various goods from the public, which are then sold to help generate revenue to support the work of Chrome Collective Charitable Trust.

A new Resource Recovery Centre will open in Ōmokoroa this month, and will greatly accept donations of variety of homewares and outdoor equipment. Photo / Supplied

The six-month pilot was so popular, the Resource Collective’s operations are ongoing at Katikati’s Resource Recovery Centre.

Ōmokoroa’s turn

Now, Ōmokoroa is to get its own Resource Recovery Centre – which will open its doors on November 18 at 10am, at 7A Prole Rd.

Steenberg said the brand new facility would be a place where discarded items are given a second life, and people are given new opportunities.

“This exciting project has been made possible in partnership with the WBOPDC, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainability and community wellbeing,” Steenberg said.

She said at Resource Collective – which runs resource recovery centres – every donation and every purchase made a difference.

“Every visit, every donation, and every purchase helps support a more inclusive, circular economy – and helps people thrive.

“From furniture and homewares to e-waste, whiteware, batteries, and tools, the items we rescue are cleaned, repaired, and upcycled, keeping them out of landfill and in use for the community. But it’s not just about items – it’s about people.

Meaningful work

“The centre provides meaningful work and training for people with intellectual disabilities, helping them develop skills, confidence, and independence,” Steenberg said.

“Our mission has always been about creating opportunities. With our new Ōmokoroa site, we can expand that mission and create more employment opportunities for people with disabilities.”

The Ōmokoroa centre will be open 10am-4.30pm Tuesday-Saturdays, while the Katikati site continues to operate at the corner of Wills and Tetley Rds, 9am-4pm on Thurdays and Saturdays,.

Community members are invited to drop off pre-loved items, shop sustainably, or join the team as volunteers or staff, Steenberg said.

If you’re interested in being part of this positive impact, contact them at: hello@resourcecollective.co.nz or phone 07 548 0008.